Released: 1993
Toby Keith’s “Should’ve Been A Cowboy” taps into the timeless American dream of the Wild West. It’s all about yearning for a simpler, more adventurous life that’s long gone. Keith paints a vivid picture of the cowboy lifestyle, filled with freedom, romance, and the allure of the open road. Let’s break down the heart and soul of this classic.
The song kicks off with a nod to Marshall Dillon and Miss Kitty from the TV show Gunsmoke. Keith uses these characters to set the stage, showing how the iconic cowboy never settled down or let go of his freedom. The mention of “a New York minute” and not getting hitched despite the romantic tension highlights the cowboy’s need for independence and adventure over domestic life. This sets the tone for the whole song — a life unshackled, wild, and free.
The chorus is where Keith really lays his cowboy dreams on the line. He talks about “wearin’ my six-shooter, ridin’ my pony on a cattle drive”, evoking images of the iconic, rugged cowboy life. These lines are about more than just the outfits or the guns; they’re about longing for a life of adventure, out in the open, where you’re judged by your skills and your courage. When Keith mentions “stealin’ a young girl’s heart” and “singin’ those campfire songs,” he’s tapping into the romanticized view of cowboys as heartthrobs and poets of the prairie.
The second verse broadens that dream, with Keith imagining himself as a sidekick to outlaws and lawmen, living dangerously but nobly. The reference to chasing Jesse James or standing with the Texas Rangers pulls us into a world where right and wrong are clear, the bad guys get what’s coming to them, and bravery wins the day. The lines “Go west, young man, haven’t you been told? California’s full of whiskey, women, and gold” echo the historical call to the American West, promising riches, adventure, and, of course, a bit of trouble.
Ultimately, “Should’ve Been A Cowboy” isn’t just about wishing to live in the past. It’s about craving a life that’s bold, free, and brimming with possibility. Toby Keith, through this anthem, touches on a universal feeling of wanting something more, something that stirs the soul. It’s a powerful reminder of the cowboy spirit that, according to Keith, should live in all of us. So, whether you’re a cowboy by trade or just in your heart, this song’s got a piece of truth for everyone who’s ever dreamed of a life less ordinary.
